The Trump administration is quietly moving to gut Head Start, proposing to eliminate the program entirely in future budgets, while already delaying nearly $1 billion in funding this year, a 37% drop from 2024.

These cuts are forcing closures and layoffs at centers nationwide, affecting families and workers.

“We’re already doing more with less,” said Mia Sykes, a teacher with Child Start in Fairfield. ”Now we’re being told the funding might disappear. That means fewer meals for kids, fewer services for families, and more stress for the workers keeping this system going.”

Across Northern California, SEIU 1021 represents Head Start workers who are already stretched thin and underpaid. These educators don’t just provide early learning; they offer developmental support, nutrition, and stability for families who need it most. Cutting this funding is a direct assault on working-class parents, children, and caregivers.

SEIU 1021 is coordinating with national allies, legal teams, and policy partners to push back against these efforts.

Members are encouraged to:

• Check in with Head Start employers about funding delays or closure threats
• Contact your U.S. Senators to demand immediate action: nhsa.org/take-action
• Sign up for updates here: p2a.co/M2EfgZg
• Join the movement on social media using hashtags: #HeadStart #SaveHeadStart #CAleg

“This isn’t just about classrooms, it’s about justice,” said Sykes.